A/N: A continuation of "A Mother's Love" which in turn is a continuation of "My Love for You is Red and Yellow" written by Baroness Blixen. A Christmas gift for Baroness Blixen in thanks for her support and friendship.
Daphne's eyes fluttered open when she felt the soft lump against her back. She changed positions in her bed only to find the lump in a new location.
Well this was certainly strange. Curious, she reached behind her and removed the mysterious object, smiling at the memory it provoked. The soft plush yellow dog with the red ears and red nose seemed to be smiling back at her. It was strange that because of an impulsive purchase at the toy store, a plush toy would have such a profound effect on her life.
She'd always cared for Niles, even during times when they had their differences. It was only natural that they would argue occasionally. They were from two completely different worlds and if it weren't for his older brother hiring her, they might never have met. But now she couldn't imagine life without him. He was the sweetest, most thoughtful man she'd ever known and she would always cherish his friendship.
But now their friendship had grown and she wasn't quite sure what to make of it. She cared for him deeply and there was no denying that she enjoyed the kisses they shared. She never expected his lips to be so soft, or that his kisses would be so sweet.
Was it love?
She wasn't sure but she felt something, something stronger than friendship. Whatever it was, she didn't want to rush into anything. To do so might jeopardize their friendship and the thought of losing him pained her soul.
She gave the plush dog one last squeeze and climbed out of bed. Frasier and Martin would be up soon and they would want their breakfast. And Niles would be arriving a little later to accompany her to the hospital. The latter made her heart flutter.
It was silly feeling this way, like a schoolgirl with a ridiculous crush on a boy. Perhaps it was the fact that Roz was now a mother. And Daphne wanted so much to have the same experience. She could just picture herself, holding a little boy or girl in her arms, her son or daughter, giving the child more love than she thought possible.
She was still lost in her thoughts of motherhood when she entered the living room where Martin and Frasier were already waiting. Her appearance made both men look up in surprise.
"Wow, you look nice!" Martin exclaimed, his eyes moving up and down as he took in her outfit. "Kind of early for a date, isn't it?"
"I-I don't have a date." She stammered, the lie leaving her mouth. "I-I'm going to the hospital to see Roz and Alice."
Martin smiled and shook his head. "Don't get me wrong, you do look nice Daphne, but don't you think that dress is a bit much?"
Daphne glanced down at the cornflower blue silk dress that lay in waves on her body. "What's wrong with me dress?"
"Nothing, Daphne. It's fine." Frasier said. "Dad's just-."
"Annoyed." Martin finished. "Where's my breakfast? I'm starving!"
Daphne sighed deeply as a surge of anger rushed through her. "I'll give you your breakfast Old Man, if you'll just wait a few bloody minutes! Besides, you could stand to wait longer than that!"
"Are you calling me fat?" Martin retorted.
"Now the both of you just calm down!" Frasier ordered. "What's this all about?"
"Beats the hell out of me." Martin grumbled. "I was just sitting here minding me own business and-."
On the verge of tears, Daphne quickly retreated into the kitchen and barely a moment had passed before she began to cry. Her tears fell rapidly, splashing into the soapy water as she washed the dishes. She had no idea why she was suddenly so emotional. Perhaps it was because she hadn't gotten enough sleep.
But her heart knew better. It had nothing to do with lack of sleep at all. She simply couldn't lie to herself any longer. She missed Niles.
